Random Orbital Sanders Review: DEWALT DWE6421K vs. DWE6423K

A random orbital sander is one of the most important power tools every woodworker should have. By using this tool, you’ll be able to get a much nicer finish without any sanding marks, as opposed to using a palm sander. They are more expensive, though, but they will definitely pay off in the long run, especially if you plan to get more serious with woodworking.

If you’re thinking about which random orbital sander to get, we suggest two great models from DEWALT, the DWE6421K and DWE6423K. At first glance, you might think they’re exactly the same, and while they do have a lot in common, there are some differences that might prevail when you’re making the final decision on which one to get.

DEWALT DWE6421K

First, let’s take a look at the DEWALT DWE6421K. This sander is equipped with a 3 Amp motor that rotates the 5-inch sanding pad at 12,000 orbits per minute, giving you plenty of power for all your projects. Furthermore, the DWE6421K can use a variety of grits, which you can use on different surfaces such as wood, plastics, and metals. These will be great for not just removing paint and varnish, but you will also be able to buff a surface, giving it a high shine.

Ergonomics

This DEWALT is a sturdy-looking piece of machinery, but it won’t vibrate too much, thanks to the rubber over-molding on the palm-size grip and a built-in counterweight. This means that you can use the sander for extended periods of time, without worrying about vibrations that could affect the precision and its handling. And speaking of handling, the DWE6421K can be comfortably used with either the left or the right hand, and what’s more, the dust collection bag can be locked into place with just one hand. Another thing you’ll notice on this power tool is the sealed switch, which prevents dust buildup.

What do you get?

Aside from the aforementioned dust collecting bag (and the sander itself, obviously), you also get the owner’s manual, as well as a carrying bag, which is a very convenient thing to have. If you plan to get more serious with this sander, and you find the dust collecting bag to be a bit inadequate, there’s a solution for that. As an option, you can get DEWALT’s dust collection system with a vacuum, models DWV010 and DWV012, or you can get a DWV9000 universal connector and fit it on a 1-1/4-inch vacuum hose if that’s more efficient for you.

It should also be mentioned that this sander is covered by a 3-year limited warranty and the company also offers a 90-day money-back guarantee, which tells you a lot about their confidence in the quality of this product.

DEWALT DWE6423K

Another great choice for a random orbital sander is the DEWALT DWE6423K, which looks a lot like the previous model. In fact, it also uses a 5-inch hook and loop sanding pad and it can also be used with either left or right hand. It works with same attachments like the DWE6421K, and it’s comfortable over longer periods of use.

However, this model has one very important feature that sets it apart from the previously mentioned DEWALT, and that’s variable speed. With this model, you can choose the speed of 8000 to 12000 orbits per minute, which will be very helpful when you’re handling uneven surfaces. This variable speed is something that the more advanced woodworkers will definitely appreciate.

The DWE6423K, just like its single-speed counterpart, comes with a dust bag, a carrying bag, as well as the owner’s manual that details everything you need to know about this tool. The same warranty conditions apply here as well, including the 90-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year free service contract.

The Final Verdict

After reading the information on these two sanders, you’re probably wondering ‘Which one should I get?’ Well, as you can see, the two models are quite similar, and the big difference is the variable speed option that the DWE6423K has. If variable speed is highly important to you, then the DWE6423K is a no-brainer. With its adjustable speed, it will be perfect even for the more demanding tasks, and you can be sure it will last a long time.

One the other hand, if the variable speed function is not something you can make use of, then the DWE6421K is a perfectly good solution. Plus, it’s cheaper than its variable speed counterpart, so it will fit better into your power tools budget.